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By Corey Fischer

Task Force To Hold Townhall Meeting

Mar 22, 2018 | 5:35 PM

A task force has started its work to find solutions to the issues impacting Vernon businesses due to homelessness, addictions and poverty.

Darrin Taylor from the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce was chosen as the group’s chair which held its first meeting Thursday.

He says the nine person committee plans to meet weekly to discuss what can be done.

“We will identify and prioritize the areas of most concern, and those that represent areas that the city has jurisdiction over. We will begin to put our heads together and make some recommendations.” Taylor tells CJIB News.

The task force will hold a townhall type meeting April 5th at the Schubert Centre to get input on the key issues from local businesses.

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“That will form the framework from which we will draft out and identfy key issues,” says Taylor, who runs Axis Intervention Services.

The committee includes two reps from city council and two from the community at large, including business owner Vicki Eide who demanded action from council last fall, and Rick Lavin, formerly with the Upper Room Mission.

The Downtown Vernon Association, Vernon Tourism, police and bylaw also have representatives.

by Corey Fischer

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